please do tell us more about how the rebecca and trent parallels connect to the fountainhead 👀
So, in The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand (Ted's favorite book) the main character Howard Roark struggles with his unbending vision regarding his work. Because of this he doesn't have many close relationships or even a stable living situation for most of the book. He does however form an incredibly strong bond with two individuals that for all intents and purposes should be as against him as the rest of the world seems to be. These two individuals are (Dominque Francon) a blonde woman who has credibility through her written works about his field and her familial connections, and (Gail Wynand) the owner/editor-in-chief to the prestigious newspaper of the time. In fact, these two characters have such an affection for Roark, and he for them, that they put their careers and reputations at risk for him. Even after all the hardships thrown at them, they are still irrevocably linked together, and the book ends with Roark's greatest feat being achieved thanks to their bond and shared trust in his abilities.
The obvious parallel here is Wynand and Trent. Like at the end of season 2 when Trent strikes off on his own from The Independent. Especially after protecting and warning Ted about the inside source that could've ruined his reputation. Wynand does a similar form of press control for Roark, and when that still isn't enough, he shuts down his paper to keep it from doing any more harm. The show and the book do a wonderful job of showcasing how much these two sets of characters respect each other's work and how that mutual respect then turned into a fulfilling personal relationship.
Now in comparing Dominque to Rebecca, they are both strong women who are dealing with inner turmoil about life and their place in the world. The Fountainhead makes a point of Roark and Dominque not getting together till the end. Allowing Dominque, the time to accept herself and her convictions even if they end up getting her hurt, because she finally believes in her ability to survive and find happiness despite the tribulations of life. Rebecca is on a similar journey as she lets herself grow comfortable with who she is and just how capable and strong that person is.
And it's because of their relationships to one another that these characters are able to experience change and growth. So while the book's primary focus is on an individuals potential for greatness while at odds with the collective norm, it still has those personal connections that make life more meaningful by knowing one another. A quality that is Ted's quintessential hallmark towards fostering a successful team. It is also what inspires Rebecca and Trent into forging their own pathes.
